Findings of studies
in Norway and Sweden have challenged the view of the typical
bully as someone who is lacking in self-confidence. According
to these studies a typical bully is not lacking in confidence
and is not insecure. It was also found that a bully is more
aggressive than his/her peers, has a positive view of violence,
has a strong need to dominate and has no real sympathy for
others. If the bullies are boys, they would tend to be physically
strong. It was also found that bullies often come from homes
where there is less warmth and where parents frequently
use physical punishment to control their children..........................................

Professor Dan Olweus
was the first person to carry out a thorough research project
on bullying.
This large, long term study which began in Sweden in 1970,
was to provide the inspiration for many who felt that bullying
in schools should be challenged rather than accepted. Since
the 1970s, his work in this area had continued with force.
Indeed, in 1997-99, he led a group in a large project which
introduced the widely respected Olweus (anti-bullying) programme
to schools in Norway. Professor Olweus is based at the Research
Centre for Health Promotion, University of Bergen in Norway
and can be contacted by email..........................................